Continuing its efforts to help tradespeople and members of the PHCP (plumbing, heating, cooling and piping) industry strengthen their sense of community, RUGGED Mind and Body, a PHCPPros initiative, was thrilled to host its fifth Road Show at 3rd St. Market Hall in Milwaukee on Oct. 20.

Held during the week of the nearby 2026 PHCC CONNECT event, the Milwaukee Road Show did not kick off with RUGGED’s usual work-life balance seminar. Instead, it focused on encouraging convention attendees to unwind and connect after a successful conference day. 

“We wanted to switch things up this time, as most of our attendees had already spent the day attending meetings and listening to educational sessions,” said PHCPPros Principal Cate Brown.

Throughout the evening, Road Show guests were able to enjoy free food and drinks, participate in a special photo booth experience and take home their own personalized RUGGED magazine cover, and go head-to-head with one another over games of table tennis. Cards with information on local and national mental health resources were handed out as well. 

“One of my favorite things about being part of the trades is the people you meet along the way,” said attendee Paige Knowles, better known as @alltradespaige on social media. “We all come from different backgrounds and have different experiences, but at the end of the day, we're all part of the same community. 

“I think events like this are especially important for younger tradespeople who are just starting their careers and finding their place in the industry,” continued Knowles. “There's still a lot of work to be done when it comes to breaking the stigma around mental health, and it starts with creating an environment where people feel comfortable being themselves. I love that RUGGED is showing the next generation that being strong doesn't mean you have to handle everything on your own.”

The event also included a raffle from RUGGED’s giveaway sponsor, RIDGID. Cameron Watson of PHCC — Texas was randomly selected as the winner of a RIDGID RP 251 press tool, which was generously donated by the company. In the coming weeks, the PHCC — Texas chapter will be donating the tool to one of its members on behalf of RIDGID and RUGGED Mind and Body. 

“At its core, RUGGED Mind and Body is about reminding people in the trades they are part of a community that supports and looks out for one another,” said PHCPPros Publisher Brad Burnside. “While our Road Shows often focus on education and mental health resources, we also recognize the importance of simply bringing people together. Sometimes, the most meaningful connections happen over a friendly competition or a casual conversation. 

“Events like this help strengthen the relationships that make our industry so special, and we hope everyone who attended walked away knowing they have a community behind them,” Burnside continued. 

The Road Show was made possible with the help of RUGGED sponsors Cintas, Watts Water Technologies, AERCO International, Bradley Corp., Charlotte Pipe, F.W. Webb, Legend Valve, Liberty Pumps, Matco-Norca and U.S. Boiler Co. Many offered attendees free merch to take home as well.

RUGGED Mind and Body would like to thank Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors—National Association (PHCC) for helping spread the word about the Road Show; conference attendees and the people of Milwaukee for joining us for this event; as well as our sponsors for their continued support.